Hi! I’m 16 and can’t get a job due to my parents’ rules. They’re not keen on technology but have agreed I can get a laptop if I pay for it myself. With money from birthdays and the upcoming holiday, I have $300. I need a reliable laptop for school, preferably with good battery life. I’m open to buying refurbished. Any recommendations?
Having bought, fixed, and sold laptops in 2020, I recommend the Dell Latitude series for their build quality and ease of repair. Specifically, the Dell Latitude 7390 could be a good fit. It’s part of Dell’s high-end series and features a 13" screen and an 8th-gen Intel processor. You can find them on eBay for about $130. Even if you need a new battery (around $40), it’s a good deal. These models are also easy to upgrade in terms of RAM and storage.
@Vesper
How about the Dell Latitude 7420? I’ve seen some good prices, but I’m unsure because its RAM isn’t upgradable. Is the battery replaceable? Despite being three generations old, it should still last a while, right?
@Joss
I prefer the 7400 or 7300, which allow for up to 64GB RAM upgrades. The 7420, while newer, doesn’t offer this flexibility. Intel’s performance hasn’t improved drastically over these generations, so a slightly older model won’t be much slower.
@Vesper
What should we look out for when buying a used Dell Latitude?
Tan said:
@Vesper
What should we look out for when buying a used Dell Latitude?
Common issues include difficult keyboard replacements and compatibility issues with non-Dell batteries. Also, make sure to keep the cable when you replace the battery, as new ones don’t include it.
@Vesper
I own a Latitude 7390 and it’s been a reliable workhorse. Definitely check the keyboard when it arrives.
It’s interesting to see parents in the West being so anti-tech.
Blakely said:
It’s interesting to see parents in the West being so anti-tech.
Many parents are trying to keep their kids from becoming too dependent on technology, which can detract from social interactions and other skills.
Consider a business-grade ThinkPad. They are durable, have good battery life, and are highly recommended for quality.
Look for used business laptops like ThinkPads, Latitudes, or EliteBooks. They are built to last and perform well over time.
Buying used is a good strategy. These laptops may not handle the latest games, but they’re perfect for school work and light gaming.
A basic Chromebook could also be a good option. It’s within your budget and suitable for school tasks.
Amazon Warehouse has great deals on used laptops. Look for something like a Lenovo ThinkPad or Dell Latitude, which are reliable and often available at a discount due to minor cosmetic issues.